With the Long Island Sound at Sunken Meadow State Park as the backdrop, Gov. David Paterson announced Thursday he has rejected Broadwater Energy's plan for a liquefied natural gas barge.

"I may not see very well, but I hear all of you," said Paterson, who was joined by a large continent of Long Island?s state and local politicians and environmentalists who opposed the project.

Paterson said Broadwater is inconsistent with the federally approved Long Island Sound management plan.

"We cannot let this plan move forward," said Paterson, who was met with a standing ovation after his formal rejection.

The governor went on to say that the $700 million natural gas barge would "scar the Long Island Sound," curtail recreational fishing and damage sea life in the waterway.

A news release sent out by the governor outlined his specific problems with the plan:

-The facility and associated pipeline and tankers would disrupt commercial and recreational fishing ? disrupting a way of life on the Sound and potentially putting families out of business.

-The project does not guarantee low-cost gas to Long Island.

-The project is not needed in the Sound ? other alternatives exist. The governor believes the State can both meet its energy demands and preserve one of New York State?s most important natural and economic resources. It does not have to be one or the other.

Paterson also announced that he is taking steps to explore energy solutions for the area. One of those measures includes the creation of a state energy planning board to tackle the problems associated with energy needs.

In addition, the governor announced LIPA will put $1 billion over the next 10 years toward a Long Island efficiency program.

John Hritcko Jr., Senior VP and Regional Project Director for Broadwater Energy, says he?s disappointed with the situation.

?Clearly we're disappointed in the department of state's determination issued today that Broadwater is inconsistent with the coastal uses of the Long Island Sound,? said Hritcko. ?But our thoughts are with the working families and businesses of Long Island who are suffering under the high cost of energy, and for whom there is now no relief in sight for these continuing high costs or supply option.?

Hritcko said Broadwater will take a long look at the decision and explore all options before considering a possible federal appeal. ?It?s certainly not a situation where the process is done,? he said.

WatchPaterson's formal rejection speech Community reaction to Paterson?s rejection of Broadwater What?s next for Long Island and its energy

News 12 LI Special Report - BroadwaterAired Tuesday, March 25:Part I: Results of the News12/Hofstra poll on BroadwaterPart II: Comments from those for and against Broadwater

Aired Wednesday, March 26:Part III: What Long Islanders say about cost-cutting claimsPart IV: Debate over Broadwater?s impact on LI taxpayers Aired Thursday, March 27:Part V: Where those who work on the Sound stand on Broadwater

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